Andy Farrell dismisses concerns over defensive capabilities of Sam Prendergast

By Edward Elliot, PA, Dublin

Ireland boss Andy Farrell dismissed concerns about Sam Prendergast’s defensive shortcomings after keeping faith with the fly-half for Saturday’s showdown with South Africa.

Leinster playmaker Prendergast impressed from an attacking perspective during last weekend’s record 46-19 victory over Australia but was criticised for missed tackles.

The 22-year-old has retained the number 10 jersey for the visit of the Springboks, with Munster’s Jack Crowley, who started the defeat to New Zealand and win over Japan earlier this month, again on the bench.

Asked about the selection and if he wanted to see more from Prendergast defensively, Farrell replied: “It’s a question that obviously keeps popping up now, but I think Sam’s ability as a fly-half far outweighs a work-on within his game.

“I thought he was tremendous last week.

“His skillset has been fantastic for all to see, and I think everyone needs to look through a little bit of a work-on, because everyone’s got work-ons and will continue to have work-ons throughout, and that’s up to us as coaches and the rest of the players to keep on working on them.”

Back-to-back world champions South Africa are set to provide Ireland’s toughest – and most physical – test of this international window.

A frustrated Farrell hit back when asked if he had spoken specifically to Prendergast about the player’s weaknesses.

“I understand your question but they’re loaded questions, because it’s obvious we have to talk about that,” said Farrell.

“Your question could be asked about any single player.

“Of course we constantly talk to individuals about all aspects of their play. So to think we’re just focusing on one aspect of one player is not right.

“For example, I spoke to our two leaders yesterday about certain aspects of their game – I’m talking about Caelan (Doris) and Dan Sheehan now, world-class players – and they agree with their work-ons.

“It is constant throughout for every single member of every single squad in world rugby.”

Farrell has made four personnel changes to the team which started against the Wallabies.

Centres Bundee Aki and Garry Ringrose replace injured duo Stuart McCloskey and Robbie Henshaw, while Paddy McCarthy and Jack Conan drop to the bench to make way for prop Andrew Porter and flanker Josh van der Flier.

Ireland have won four of their past five meetings with South Africa.

Asked about replicating the physicality shown during those victories, which included a pool-stage success at the 2023 World Cup and a 1-1 series draw last year, Farrell said: “If you don’t show up with that frame of mind you’re on the backward step straight away so it is an absolute given in any single Test match.

“But certainly it’s highlighted even more so against the best team in the world at this moment in time.

“If you don’t turn up in that regard, you’re in for a tough afternoon.”